Transfagarasan Highway Balea Lake and Carta Monastery From Brasov

The Transfagarasan Highway, often touted as Europe’s most spectacular mountain road, winds its way through the dramatic landscapes of Romania’s Carpathian Mountains. Embarking on this journey from Brasov, travelers can marvel at the captivating Balea Lake, a glacial gem nestled at an impressive elevation of 2,034 meters. Beyond the natural wonders, the historic Carta Monastery, with its exquisite Gothic architecture, offers a glimpse into Romania’s rich cultural heritage. Whether seeking breathtaking vistas, thrilling activities, or immersive experiences, this guided tour promises an unforgettable adventure for up to 7 fortunate explorers.

Good To Know

1. This guided tour from Brasov explores the Transfagarasan Highway, Balea Lake, and Carta Monastery, highlighting Romania’s breathtaking landscapes and engineering marvels.

2. Visitors can experience the Transfagarasan Highway, recognized as Europe’s most spectacular mountain road, with stunning views and engineering feats.

3. Balea Lake, a glacial lake at an altitude of 2,034 meters, offers cable car access and winter activities like an ice hotel and church.

4. Carta Monastery, built in late Gothic style by Cistercian monks, showcases rich history and architecture with well-preserved monastic buildings.

5. The tour features a maximum group size of 7 travelers, hotel pickup and drop-off, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Tour Overview

This tour offers travelers the opportunity to explore the stunning Transfagarasan Highway and Balea Lake, departing from Brasov, Romania.

Led by a professional guide, the tour provides pickup and drop-off at your hotel. Visitors can expect to spend approximately 2 hours at each major stop, with a maximum group size of 7 travelers.

Priced from $134.12, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The Transfagarasan Highway, recognized as Europe’s most spectacular mountain road, features scenic views, waterfalls, and a stress-relieving environment.

Balea Lake, a glacial lake at an altitude of 2034 m, offers stunning vistas and winter attractions like an ice hotel and church.

Transfagarasan Highway Highlights

The Transfagarasan Highway is widely recognized as one of the most spectacular mountain roads in Europe. Featured on the UK motor show Top Gear, Jeremy Clarkson famously described it as "the best road in the world."

Connecting Transylvania with Valachia, this scenic route offers breathtaking views, rushing waterfalls, and a stress-relieving environment. Winding through the Fagaras Mountains, the highway is renowned for its engineering marvels, including sharp turns and steep inclines that challenge even the most experienced drivers.

Whether you’re a motorsport enthusiast or simply seeking a picturesque journey, the Transfagarasan Highway promises an unforgettable experience amidst Romania’s stunning natural landscapes.

Breathtaking Balea Lake

Balea Lake, a glacial wonder nestled at an impressive altitude of 2,034 meters within the Fagaras Mountains, captivates visitors with its stunning beauty. Known for its crystal-clear waters, the lake’s maximum depth reaches 11 meters, providing a home for trout. Visitors can access the lake via a cable car during the winter months from November 1st to July 1st, at a cost of approximately 12 euros for a round trip. Beyond the lake, the area offers an array of winter activities, including an ice hotel, an ice church, and even igloos constructed on the frozen surface.

Balea Lake Specifications
Altitude	2,034 meters
Maximum Depth	11 meters
Cable Car Access	November 1st – July 1st
Cable Car Cost	Approximately 12 euros (round trip)

Exploring Carta Monastery

Located a short distance from the captivating Balea Lake, Carta Monastery stands as a testament to the region’s rich history and architectural prowess.

Built in the late Gothic style by Cistercian monks from Burgundy, France, the monastery offers visitors a glimpse into the past.

Visitors can explore the:

1. Stunning Gothic architecture, featuring intricate stone carvings and ornate details.
2. Well-preserved monastic buildings, including the church, cloisters, and dormitories.
3. Fascinating historical artifacts and exhibits that showcase the monastery’s role in the region’s religious and cultural heritage.
4. Serene and peaceful environment, providing a tranquil respite from the bustling world outside.

Group Size and Duration

Although the tour is designed to accommodate a maximum group size of 7 travelers, the actual group size may vary depending on demand. The duration of the tour is approximately 2 hours at each major stop, including the Transfagarasan Highway, Balea Lake, and Carta Monastery. This allows ample time for travelers to explore the stunning scenery and historical sites.

Group Size	Price
1	$134.12
2	$114.06
3	$100.85
4+	Inquiry

The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure, providing flexibility for travelers.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The tour pricing varies based on the group size, with discounted rates for larger groups.

The cost of the tour starts from $134.12 per person, but this price can change depending on the number of travelers in the group.

Here are some key details about the pricing and cancellation policy:

1. The maximum group size is 7 travelers.
2. Prices are quoted per person and may decrease for larger groups.
3. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
4. Payment is required in advance to secure the booking.

Customer Feedback Snapshot

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the tour, with an impressive 5.0 overall rating based on 12 reviews.

Nearly all customers, 11 out of 12, awarded the tour a 5-star rating, highlighting the knowledgeable guides, enjoyable experiences, and informative nature of the tour.

Only one review was less positive, awarding 3 stars.

The glowing feedback suggests the tour consistently delivers an exceptional experience, with no 2 or 1-star reviews.

Accessibility and Transportation

To access the Transfagarasan Highway and Balea Lake, visitors can either drive themselves or join a guided tour.

Driving offers more flexibility, but guided tours provide the convenience of transportation and expert commentary.

The tour includes:

1. Pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Brasov.
2. Professional guide who shares insights about the region’s history and landscape.
3. Approximately 2 hours to explore each major stop, including the Transfagarasan Highway, Balea Lake, and Carta Monastery.
4. During winter, a cable car ride to access Balea Lake, costing around 12 euros for a round trip.

Regardless of the option chosen, visitors can look forward to an unforgettable journey through Romania’s stunning mountain scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Carta Monastery?

The best time to visit Carta Monastery is year-round, as it offers architectural and historical interest regardless of season. However, it’s ideal to go during warmer months to fully appreciate the outdoor surroundings.

Are There Any Special Events or Festivals Held at Balea Lake?

Balea Lake hosts an annual Ice Hotel and Ice Church during the winter months, when the lake freezes over. Visitors can also enjoy igloo building and ice sculptures as part of the winter activities at the site.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Local Crafts During the Tour?

Yes, the tour offers opportunities to purchase souvenirs and local crafts, particularly at Balea Lake where there are shops selling traditional Romanian items. Visitors can find unique handmade products, artwork, and gifts to take home as mementos of their experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers can arrange for additional time at each stop or request a custom itinerary to explore the region more thoroughly. Extended tours are subject to availability and additional costs.

What Should I Bring With Me to Make the Most of the Experience?

To make the most of the experience, travelers should bring warm clothing, comfortable walking shoes, camera, snacks, and water. Layers are recommended to account for the changing weather and elevations throughout the tour.

The Sum Up

This guided tour offers travelers an unforgettable experience exploring Romania’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. From the breathtaking Transfagarasan Highway to the serene Balea Lake and the historic Carta Monastery, the journey showcases the country’s diverse landscapes and architectural gems. With a group size of up to 7 and flexible pricing and cancellation policies, this tour caters to a range of travelers seeking an immersive and accessible adventure.